Nigeria’s move toward reforming its security architecture gathered momentum on Wednesday as the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, inaugurated a seven-member committee to develop a framework for the establishment of State Police.
The inauguration took place during the IGP’s maiden Conference with Senior Police Officers at the Peacekeeping Conference Centre, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
Addressing members of the committee, Disu underscored the urgency and significance of their assignment, describing it as both “timely and consequential” to the future of policing in Nigeria.
According to the IGP, the committee’s recommendations will help shape the operational structure and guiding principles of State Policing in the country. He charged members to approach their assignment with professionalism, objectivity, and a deep understanding of the complexities involved in policing a diverse nation like Nigeria.
“In carrying out this responsibility, your deliberations must be guided by professionalism and a clear appreciation of our national diversity,” Disu stated, adding that the work of the committee would lay the foundation for a policing model that reflects local realities while upholding national standards.
The committee is mandated to review existing policing models within and outside Nigeria, assess community security needs and emerging threats nationwide, and propose an operational framework for the creation and coordination of State Police structures.
It is also expected to address critical issues such as recruitment processes, training standards, resource allocation, and inter-agency collaboration.
In addition, the panel will develop accountability and oversight mechanisms designed to ensure professionalism and sustain public confidence in the proposed system.
Disu noted that, if properly designed and effectively implemented, State Policing could significantly enhance security delivery by bringing law enforcement closer to the people, improving intelligence gathering, and enabling faster responses to emerging threats.
The committee is chaired by Olu Ogunsakin, with Bode Ojajuni serving as secretary. Other members include Emmanuel Ojukwu, Okebechi Agora, Suleyman Gulma, Ikechukwu Okafor, and Tolulope Ipinmisho.
The IGP gave the committee a four-week deadline to submit its report, expressing confidence in their capacity to deliver a comprehensive and workable blueprint.
The development marks one of the first major policy steps under Disu’s leadership, following his recent appointment and confirmation as Nigeria’s police chief.
The inauguration comes amid heightened security concerns across the country, with many stakeholders advocating State Policing as a viable strategy for tackling persistent security challenges.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has already urged the National Assembly to commence legislative processes toward amending relevant laws to enable the creation of State Police.
